1) Why would you encourage students to take a UNL Gerontology course even if they are not pursuing a healthcare field?
I took a course that double-dipped into gerontology and psychology, so I counted it toward my psychology minor. However, this class, GERO/PSYC 446, was what opened my eyes to the study of aging. I would encourage anyone to take a gerontology class, at any level, because it applies to any future career, not just healthcare. The population of adults age 65 and older is projected to increase significantly in the coming years, so learning about aging processes and how to interact with the older population is valuable.
2) Why would you recommend pursuing a Certificate (or Minor) in Gerontology at UNL?
The practicum is the reason I chose to pursue the Certificate. I wanted the opportunity to apply the knowledge I gained in the classroom in real-life interactions. My practicum was at Madonna Rehabilitation Hospital. I would help plan and facilitate group activities for the residents, visit residents in their rooms to play games or read books with them. Getting to know the residents on a personal level, hearing their stories, and having conversations with them opened my eyes to the significance of the older population. My practicum experience was one that I would recommend to anyone, no matter their career path. It helped me grow in ways I didn’t realize I was lacking.
3) In your opinion, what experiences and/or classes as a Gerontology Certificate student at UNL have contributed to your acceptance to UNMC for their Occupational Therapy program?
I was completely set on becoming a Pediatric OT. Pursuing the Gerontology Certificate led me to realize I might also want to work with older adults. It opened my eyes to a large segment of the population that I hadn’t previously given much thought to. My experience in my gerontology practicum was valuable because it dispelled any preconceived stereotypes about the older population and helped me feel confident that this could be a potential career path. As an undergraduate research assistant, I saw the importance of researching and learning more about the older population, as the numbers in this demographic are booming. These opportunities enabled me to answer questions confidently in interview settings and to show my passion for gerontology.
More details at: https://gerontology.unl.edu/